The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has announced the permanent closure of its embassy in New Delhi due to “persistent challenges from the Indian government”. This comes after suspending operations on September 30th hoping for resolution of issues like visa extensions.
In a strongly-worded statement, the embassy expressed regret over the shutting down of its mission due to “persistent challenges from the Indian government.” It said neither the objectives of securing visas for staff and families nor a change in India’s stance could be realized despite an 8-week hiatus in functioning.
India has been a key supporter of an independent Afghanistan since 2001 and the embassy acknowledged New Delhi’s security and geopolitical constraints as the region grapples with a Taliban regime. However, with Taliban pressure mounting to relinquish control, sustained operations became untenable it suggested.
#WATCH | The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan announced the permanent closure of its diplomatic mission in New Delhi effective from November 23, 2023
— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2023
(Outside visuals from the Embassy) pic.twitter.com/H2iXDm2HKq
Over the past two years, the Afghan community in India has seen a sharp slump with refugees, students, and businesspersons returning home. Limited visa issuances have hampered the ability of Afghans to remain in India during the turmoil back home.
The embassy thanked India for cooperation over the years but said winding down at this stage safeguards Afghanistan’s interests best. As an emerging regional power, India is walking a tightrope between criticizing the Taliban’s human rights record and preventing Pakistan-based terror groups from consolidating hold.
But visa curbs strangle people-to-people ties that New Delhi itself worked hard to build over 20 years. With both sides letting diplomacy become hostage to security matters, restoring engagement looks challenging unless pragmatic solutions emerge.
For now, Afghans nurturing deep bonds with India can only hope the darkness before the dawn ends rather sooner as the embassy gates close firmly.
